As the crisp autumn air ushers in cozy evenings, I can’t help but crave something sweet and comforting. Enter my Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting—a delightful combination of tender, spiced cookies nestled under a luscious layer of tangy frosting. This recipe captures the warmth of fall flavors, making it a perfect treat for gatherings or simply enjoying with a cup of tea at home. With quick prep time and the option to customize with ingredients like chocolate chips or extra spices, these cookies are not just a treat; they are an experience that evokes nostalgia. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the inviting aroma of fall and create a delicious indulgence that everyone will adore?
Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible?
Soft and Chewy: These cookies boast a tender texture that’s almost cake-like, melting in your mouth with every bite.
Warm Spices: Infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, they embrace the seasonal flavors of fall that everyone loves.
Decadent Frosting: Topped with creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting, they strike the perfect balance between sweet and savory.
Quick to Make: With minimal prep and baking time, you can whip up a batch in no time, perfect for unexpected guests or cozy evenings.
Customizable: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or trying different spices to make these cookies your own. For more delightful cookie ideas, check out my Healthy Carrot Cookies and Chocolate Oat Cookies.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookies
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies rise effectively.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; increase for a more intense flavor profile.
• Ground Nutmeg – Enhances the autumnal flavor; can be swapped with allspice if desired.
• Ground Cloves – Contributes depth of flavor; skip for a milder taste if preferred.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; be sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cookies and helps create a soft texture; reduce quantity for less sweetness.
• Pumpkin Puree – Keeps cookies moist and flavorful; avoid using pumpkin pie filling.
• Large Egg – Binds ingredients together and adds extra moisture to the dough.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds sweetness and complexity to the flavor profile of the cookies.
For the Frosting
• Cream Cheese – The base of the frosting that imparts a delicious tanginess; use full-fat for the best results.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; adjust quantity based on desired sweetness.
• Milk or Heavy Cream – Adjusts frosting consistency; add to thin it out or skip for a thicker frosting.
These soft pumpkin cookies are a wonderful way to embrace the flavors of fall, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step is vital as it evenly distributes the leavening agent and spices, ensuring your soft pumpkin cookies have a delightful flavor and texture. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together with an electric mixer on medium speed for 3-5 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. The butter should appear pale in color and creamy, indicating it’s well combined with the sugar and ready for the next steps.
Step 3: Mix in Pumpkin, Egg, and Vanilla
Add 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is well combined, creating a moist base for your soft pumpkin cookies. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, inviting you to add the dry ingredients next.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with the electric mixer on low speed. Mix just until combined—about 30 seconds. Avoid overmixing to maintain that tender texture characteristic of soft pumpkin cookies. The dough should be slightly sticky but cohesive and ready to rest.
Step 5: Chill Dough
Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and place the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours if you want deeper flavors. Chilling is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking and enhances the overall taste of your soft pumpkin cookies.
Step 6: Preheat Oven
About 10 minutes before you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, line your baking sheets with parchment paper, allowing for perfect release and easy cleanup after baking your delicious soft pumpkin cookies.
Step 7: Shape Cookies
Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the chilled dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Aim for uniform mounds for even baking. The dough will spread slightly, so don’t worry if they’re not perfectly round at this stage.
Step 8: Bake
Place the baking sheets in your preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes. Look for lightly golden edges and a slightly set center; they will appear soft but firm up as they cool. The fragrant aroma filling your kitchen is a sure sign that your soft pumpkin cookies are nearly ready!
Step 9: Cool Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them maintain their soft texture as they finish setting up beautifully.
Step 10: Prepare Frosting
While the cookies cool, make the cream cheese frosting by beating together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened unsalted butter in a mixing bowl. Gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar and 2-4 tablespoons of milk, mixing until smooth and creamy. The frosting should be spreadable yet thick enough to cling to each cookie.
Step 11: Frost Cookies
Once your soft pumpkin cookies are completely cool, generously frost the tops with the prepared cream cheese frosting using a knife or piping bag. Feel free to add optional decorations, such as sprinkles or a dash of cinnamon, to give your cookies that extra festive flair.
Step 12: Serve
Your delightful soft pumpkin cookies with cream cheese frosting are now ready to be savored! Serve them immediately, or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Enjoy these treats warm with a cup of coffee or tea during cozy autumn evenings.
How to Store and Freeze Soft Pumpkin Cookies
Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their delightful softness.
Refrigeration: If you prefer, these cookies can be kept in the fridge, where they’ll last for about a week. Ensure they’re covered to avoid drying out.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag. Frost them after thawing for the best taste.
Reheating: To enjoy your soft pumpkin cookies warm, microwave them for about 10-15 seconds directly from the fridge or freezer, ensuring they maintain their irresistible chewy texture.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to tailor these cookies to your taste; let your creativity flow with delightful twists and turns.
- Chocolate Chip Twist: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, sweet contrast. Each bite will bring an indulgent surprise that pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use non-dairy cream cheese for the frosting, ensuring everyone can enjoy these delicious cookies!
- Spice Up the Flavor: Replace cinnamon and nutmeg with chai spice blend for a warm, aromatic twist. This can ignite a whole new taste sensation that warms the heart.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and nuttiness. The delightful crunch elevates the soft cookies, offering layers of flavor.
- Pumpkin Spice Boost: Increase the amount of pumpkin spice to a whole tablespoon for an extra kick of autumnal flavor, enhancing that cozy experience even more.
- Frosting Variations: Blend in a tablespoon of maple syrup into the frosting for a fall twist or spice it up with a pinch of cinnamon. Either will infuse your cookies with sweet, seasonal surprise.
- Mini Treats: For bite-sized delights, scoop smaller portions and reduce baking time by a couple of minutes, making them perfect for snacking or sharing. Just watch them carefully as they bake!
- Cream Cheese Substitute: Use whipped coconut cream for the frosting for a lighter, dairy-free alternative, allowing you to savor these cookies without compromising taste.
Harness the spirit of these soft pumpkin cookies, and if you’re inspired for more cookie adventures, check out my Healthy Carrot Cookies and Chocolate Oat Cookies for more delightful treats!
Make Ahead Options
These Soft Pumpkin Cookies are perfect for meal prep, making your life easier during bustling autumn weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This chilling step not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the cookies from spreading too much while baking. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 days; just ensure they are in an airtight container to keep them fresh and soft. When you’re ready to enjoy your treats, frost them with the cream cheese mixture after thawing to maintain that creamy texture, and you’ll have delicious cookies ready in no time!
What to Serve with Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
As the sweet aroma of soft pumpkin cookies fills your kitchen, consider these delightful pairing ideas to enhance your autumn experience.
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Warm Apple Cider: This comforting drink complements the spices of the cookies, creating a cozy fall atmosphere.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla adds creaminess that beautifully contrasts the soft cookies, making every bite indulgent.
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Chai Tea: The warmth and spice of chai marry perfectly with pumpkin flavors, elevating your dessert to a delightful experience.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich hot chocolate pairs beautifully, providing a chocolaty twist that balances the tangy frosting.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over the cookies for an extra touch of sweetness that enhances the pumpkin flavor. It’s a decadent option!
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Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty, buttery flavors of pecan pie bars provide a scrumptious texture contrast alongside your cookies.
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Spiced Nuts or Candied Pecans: Add a crunchy element that complements the soft texture of the pumpkin cookies, making for an irresistible combination.
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Maple Flavored Latte: The sweet maple notes in this drink work wonderfully with pumpkin, creating a truly fall-inspired dessert experience.
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Cranberry Crumble Pie: A slice of tart cranberry pie adds brightness, balancing the richness of the cookies with its fruity essence.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side can make your dessert feel even more indulgent and luxurious.
Expert Tips for Soft Pumpkin Cookies
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for easy mixing. This helps achieve a smooth frosting for your soft pumpkin cookies.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough is crucial; it prevents spreading while baking and enhances the cookies’ flavor. Don’t skip this step!
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dough just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tougher cookies, so gently fold in the dry ingredients to maintain that delightful softness.
- Perfect Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies while baking. They should be slightly underbaked for a soft, chewy center that makes these cookies irresistible.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices or add chocolate chips to personalize your soft pumpkin cookies and surprise your family with unique flavors!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe pumpkin for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, make sure to choose cans labeled as “100% pumpkin” instead of pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Look for brands that have a rich, deep orange color for the best flavor. If you opt for fresh pumpkin, select a smaller variety, like sugar pumpkins; they are sweeter and more tender.
How should I store leftover cookies?
Very good question! To keep your soft pumpkin cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a chilled option, you can refrigerate them, where they’ll maintain their tenderness for about a week. Just be sure they are covered to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Freezing is a fantastic way to preserve your soft pumpkin cookies. Allow the unfrosted cookies to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the cookies to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and frost them afterward for the best tasting experience.
What do I do if my cookies turn out too dry?
If your soft pumpkin cookies aren’t as moist as you hoped, it may be due to overbaking or measuring flour incorrectly. For next time, make sure to measure your flour using the spoon and level method, or better yet, invest in a kitchen scale for accuracy. If they’re already baked, consider layering them with frosting or serving them with a scoop of ice cream to add some moisture back!
Are these cookies safe for pets or individuals with common allergies?
It’s important to know that these cookies contain common allergens such as eggs and dairy. If you’re sharing with friends who have allergies, it’s best to inform them of the ingredients. As for pets, the chocolate chips often recommended as a variation can be toxic to dogs, so avoid giving them any cookies containing chocolate. Always check with your vet if you’re unsure about new foods for your pets.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the frosting?
If you’d like a less sweet cream cheese frosting for your soft pumpkin cookies, simply reduce the amount of powdered sugar you add gradually until it reaches your desired taste. You can also mix in a pinch of salt or add a splash of vanilla extract to balance out the sweetness! Adjusting gradually allows you to maintain control of the frosting’s consistency and flavor.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies That Melt in Your Mouth This Fall
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves, and ½ teaspoon of salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together for 3-5 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix on low speed until well combined.
- Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) about 10 minutes before baking.
- Using a cookie scoop or spoon, portion out the chilled dough onto lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.
- Cool the cookies on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the frosting, beat together 4 ounces of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup of softened unsalted butter, then gradually add 2 cups of powdered sugar and 2-4 tablespoons of milk.
- Once cool, frost the cookies generously with the prepared cream cheese frosting.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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